For the 2011 show we will have several new performers joining us. In the past, only the primary singers had show-specific garments. This year EVERYONE will have costuming of some kind. This includes some of the musicians that have just worn black in the past. As we are celebrating the darkest night of the year, all the choices will still be primarily black with yellow-gold or silver/white trim. Clothing worn underneath, such as a turtleneck sweater, slacks, etc. must also be plain black. BLACK SOCKS AND SHOES are mandatory! You'd be amazed how well a white stripe on a shoe can be seen all the way to the back row! Dressy in a "world-culture" fashion would be a good way to describe what we're after. No sneakers/gym shoes!!!
Originally, I was inspired by garments I had seen on a trip to Egypt. We found an importer and ordered some "galibayas" for the singers in 2007. As I recall, the order was delivered surprisingly quickly. Here is what we got:
for men:
http://www.pyramidimports.com/artsandcrafts/gal202.htm
for women:
http://aljilbab.com/black_richie_galabeya_small.asp
Everyone will purchase their own garment. You will order this specifically to fit you and only you, and you will own it. We feel that the prices on these items are ridiculously low, especially when you consider the excessive amount of hand-embroidery on them; AMAZING! Plus the fact that many of them are made from Egyptian cotton (the best in the world). Prices begin at $16.99. You can choose to go with the designs above, or you can choose something similar. Here are some possibilities for you:
for men:
http://www.alhannah.com/products/me471.html
http://www.eastessence.com/products/Ehan_Sherwani-454-2.html
https://www.ilmshop.com/product_info.php/cPath/48_51/products_id/1361
http://www.desivastra.com/indianboutique/id_1040black-sherwani.html
http://www.islamicstore.com/waistcoat.html
http://www.zarinas.com/mensvests.shtml
http://www.alhannah.com/products/me519.html you can order this in black
for women:
http://aljilbab.com/black_nafisa_jilbab_large.asp
http://www.pyramidimports.com/artsandcrafts/gal103.htm
http://www.islamic-attire.com/afia-best-abaya-in-black-color/
http://www.islamic-attire.com/products/Aneezah-abaya-Stylish-abaya-from-islamic-attire.html
http://www.islamic-attire.com/products/Marnia-sajeda-abayas.html
http://www.alhannah.com/products/ab429.html
http://www.alhannah.com/products/ab483.html
http://www.alhannah.com/products/ab492.html
http://www.ndafashions.com/store/index.php/women-s-clothing-3/women-s-abayas/khaliji-abayas/brown-flower-embroidered-abaya.html
http://www.eastessence.com/products/Reeha_Abaya-498-40.html
http://www.eastessence.com/products/Erina_Abaya-161-40.html
http://www.eastessence.com/products/Madaniya_Abaya_Set-618-40.html
http://www.pyramidimports.com/bellydancing/nar-blk.htm
http://www.islamic-attire.com/afia-best-abaya-in-black-color/
Well, here is a start anyway. Men— it is fine to just wear your black dress clothes with one of the vests listed above over them. Women— for singers, it will need to be floor length. You are welcome to search for your own designs if you like. Just Google "abaya" or "galibaya", or perhaps try a spelling change like "galabia". You'll see that some of the women's outfits come with a head scarf. Obviously, you'll not be needing this, but the ensemble comes with it nonetheless.
Note: Please let us be clear: EVERYONE will have some kind of costuming for the 2011 show. It is possible that you have an alternative to the above and we are very willing to hear your suggestions. For instance, I know Sandy Blocker has a lot of great stuff from West Africa he has worn to great effect. Also, in past years we have loaned items from our costume closet to certain people. Boots, etc. There are some options. Terry, the black utilikilt is still yours to wear, at your command.
ORDER NOW! Most of these items are imported from the Middle East. Don't wait to order!!!
Keep us in the loop. Please communicate with us what you've chosen, and when you made your order!
Raven Harte
Stage Manager
cell - 336-692-3631
ravenharte@aol.com
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